Slings are used to treat female stress urinary incontinence (SUI). They are not effective in treating urge incontinence.
There are a wide variety of slings, including the pubovaginal sling, the midurethral retropubic slings and the transobturator slings.
Most women with SUI have movement of their urethra away from the pubic bone when abdominal pressure is increased, such as during coughing. The sling remains stationary, and comes in contact with the urethra during its downward movement, essentially compressing it. It can be likened to stepping on a hose with running water and shutting the stream off.
You will be getting a pre-procedure phone call (per Medicare requirements) to go over items such as what medications you currently take and any drug allergies you have – including latex, as we use latex gloves in the exam. The sling procedure is carried out under general anesthesia, so you will be reminded to have nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours prior to procedure and to bring a driver with you. You will be asked if you have a living will or durable power of attorney.
